# **How to Choose Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddle, Furnace, Pro Grade, Fly Tying**
Fly tying is an art that demands high-quality materials to create effective and durable flies. Among the most sought-after materials for dry fly patterns is the **Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddle**, particularly in the **Furnace Pro Grade** variant. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fly tyer, selecting the right saddle hackle is crucial for achieving the perfect float, movement, and durability in your flies.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best **Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddle (Furnace, Pro Grade)** for your fly tying needs.
## **Understanding Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddles**
Whiting Farms is renowned for producing some of the finest rooster saddles in the fly tying industry. Their **Pro Grade** hackles are selectively bred for superior quality, featuring stiff fibers, consistent barb length, and vibrant colors. The **Furnace** variant is a classic, characterized by its dark center and reddish-brown edges, making it ideal for imitating natural insects.
### **Key Features to Look For:**
1. **Barb Stiffness & Density**
– Dry fly hackles must have stiff, resilient fibers to support the fly on the water’s surface.
– The **Pro Grade** saddles from Whiting are known for their exceptional stiffness, ensuring better floatation.
2. **Barb Length Consistency**
– A high-quality saddle will have uniform barb lengths, allowing for even wraps around the hook.
– Check for minimal variation in fiber length to avoid uneven fly profiles.
3. **Color & Sheen**
– The **Furnace** pattern should have a rich, dark center with reddish or golden edges.
– A natural sheen enhances the fly’s attractiveness to fish.
4. **Feather Flexibility & Size Range**
– A good saddle should offer a range of feather sizes (from #12 to #24 hooks) to accommodate different fly patterns.
– The feathers should be flexible enough for smooth wrapping without breaking.
## **How to Select the Best Saddle for Fly Tying**
### **1. Assess the Feather Structure**
– Hold the saddle up to light and check for gaps or weak spots.
– High-quality saddles will have dense, closely packed barbs.
### **2. Test the Stiffness**
– Gently bend a feather—if it springs back without breaking, it’s suitable for dry flies.
– Soft or limp fibers are better suited for wet flies or streamers.
### **3. Examine the Color Consistency**
– Ensure the **Furnace** coloring is uniform across the saddle.
– Avoid faded or blotchy feathers, as they may not mimic natural insects effectively.
### **4. Check for Damage or Defects**
– Look for broken barbs, fraying, or unnatural bends.
– A premium **Pro Grade** saddle should be free from imperfections.
## **Best Uses for Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddle (Furnace, Pro Grade)**
This saddle is perfect for tying:
– **Elk Hair Caddis**
– **Adams Dry Fly**
– **Royal Wulff**
– **Humpy Patterns**
Its stiff fibers and natural coloration make it a top choice for imitating mayflies, caddisflies, and other surface insects.
## **Why Choose Whiting Pro Grade?**
Whiting Farms has set the industry standard with their genetically selected roosters, ensuring:
✔ **Superior floatation**
✔ **Longer-lasting flies**
✔ **Wider size range per saddle**
✔ **Consistent quality across feathers**
## **Final Tips for Buyers**
– Purchase from reputable dealers (like **KyleBooker**) to ensure authenticity.
– Store your saddle in a dry, cool place to maintain feather quality.
– Consider buying multiple saddles if you tie flies frequently.
### **Conclusion**
Choosing the right **Whiting Dry Fly Rooster Saddle (Furnace, Pro Grade)** can elevate your fly tying game. By focusing on barb stiffness, color consistency, and feather structure, you’ll create flies that perform exceptionally on the water.
For premium fly tying materials, check out **KyleBooker’s** selection of Whiting products—your trusted source for high-performance fishing gear.
**Happy tying and tight lines!** 🎣
